Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties

This Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties recipe is the kind of weeknight comfort food that feels special without a lot of fuss. Tender bite-sized pieces of chicken are seared in butter, then folded into a lusciously rich cream and cheese sauce that clings to every bowtie. Expect a silky, velvety texture from the heavy cream and cream cheese, a gentle garlic aroma that makes the whole kitchen inviting, and gooey mozzarella that pulls with every forkful. It is ideal for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a satisfying pasta that doubles as a crowd pleaser. If you like creamy garlic pasta, you might also enjoy this creamy garlic chicken pasta family favorite for more inspiration.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Small, evenly sized pieces cook quickly and ensure tender bites in every forkful.
4 tbsp butter, divided
Butter adds a rich, savory base for browning the chicken and building the sauce.
1 lb bowtie pasta
Bowtie pasta holds sauce in its folds and gives a pleasant bite.
4 cups heavy cream
Heavy cream creates the silky, indulgent sauce that makes this dish decadent.
4 oz cream cheese, softened
Cream cheese helps thicken the sauce and adds tangy creaminess.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus more for topping
Mozzarella melts beautifully and gives the dish its gooey, stretchy texture.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth to the overall flavor.

If you enjoy creamy pasta variations, try a different presentation with the chicken alfredo garlic bread bowls recipe for another fun serving idea.

Step-by-step Instructions

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside. Reserve a 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
Tip: Reserve the water before draining so you can loosen the sauce if needed later.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if needed so the chicken gets a light sear.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of the butter, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Tip: Watch the garlic closely so it does not brown, which can make it bitter.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is silky. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Tip: Add the pasta water a little at a time to avoid thinning the sauce too much.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the drained bowtie pasta, and toss gently to coat everything in the sauce. Serve hot with extra shredded mozzarella on top for added melt.
Tip: For a slightly lighter finish, you can stir in a little more reserved pasta water just before serving.

For another garlic-forward chicken idea, see this spin on flavor in chicken shawarma with garlic sauce.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: approximately 1240 calories per serving

Tips, Storage & Variations

Practical tips: Use evenly cut chicken pieces so they cook uniformly, and keep the heat moderate when adding dairy so the sauce stays smooth.
Reheating: Rewarm gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce and prevent separation.
Storage: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly, stirring to reincorporate the sauce. Note that texture may change slightly after freezing due to the cream.
Flavor variations using only existing ingredients:
- Extra cheesy: Stir extra shredded mozzarella into the sauce and use more on top before serving.
- More savory: Increase the grated Parmesan for a sharper, nuttier edge.
- Richer sauce: Add an extra ounce of cream cheese for an even thicker, velvety finish.

For a baked comfort-food idea that leans into creamy textures, check out creamy ritz cracker chicken casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another pasta shape instead of bowties?
Yes. Any short pasta like penne or rotini will work and hold the sauce well.
How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
Heat the sauce gently and stir often. If it looks grainy, add a small splash of reserved pasta water and stir until smooth.
Can I use low fat cream or milk instead of heavy cream?
Heavy cream gives the characteristic richness. Using lower fat dairy will thin the sauce and change the texture.
Is it safe to cook chicken in butter without oil?
Yes. Butter provides enough fat for searing, but keep the heat moderate to prevent burning.
Should I melt the cream cheese before adding other cheeses?
Soften and stir the cream cheese into the warm cream until smooth, then add the shredded cheeses for even melting.
How do I reheat without drying the chicken?
Reheat on low heat with a splash of water or cream and stir gently until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties recipe is a comforting, cheesy meal that comes together quickly and satisfies big appetites. If you want a baked variation that leans into garlic and melted mozzarella, the Baked Garlic Butter Chicken with Mozzarella – Little Spice Jar offers a complementary approach. For another pasta recipe that pairs garlic, butter, and chicken with bowtie pasta, see Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta – Healthy By Fork. Try this at home tonight and share how yours turned out for a cozy, delicious dinner.